Venezuela Issues Ultimatum to Global Carriers: Resume Flights or Risk Sanctions

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The Venezuelan authorities have issued a firm ultimatum to international airlines, demanding they restart operations to the country within 48 hours or risk losing their operating licenses.

Airlines Halt Services Following US Warning

Several major airlines suspended their Venezuelan operations after the American FAA raised concerns about increased military activity in the region.

The warning came as the US government escalated pressure by sending military assets to the Caribbean region, including what sources indicate as enhanced naval deployment.

Impacted Carriers

• Spanish airlines: Air Europa
• Brazilian carrier: Gol Airlines
• Latin American operator: Latam Airlines
• Colombian airline: Avianca
• European airline: TAP Air Portugal
• Middle Eastern airline: Turkish Airlines

"Rescinding airlines' clearance would only isolate the country further," cautioned the International Air Transport Association.

Security Concerns

American aviation warning specifically highlighted concerns about flying near Caracas airport, referencing worsening safety situation and heightened defense activities.

Maiquetía airport, which handles capital city flights, has seen dramatically decreased global connectivity despite certain carriers continuing operations.

Industry Response

Industry groups have urged Venezuelan authorities to withdraw the deadline, warning that further loss of air links would damage Venezuela's interests.

Industry representatives stressed that participating carriers had only briefly halted operations and remained committed to restoring services when situation stabilizes.

Escalating Conflict

US-Venezuela relations have deteriorated amid increased US military presence in the region, which US officials state aims to combat drug trafficking.

Naval operations have included numerous interventions against suspected drug vessels in regional seas since early September.

Political Standoff

National leader Nicolás Maduro has strongly condemned both the naval actions and American deployment, accusing Washington of attempting to overthrow him.

In public comments, Maduro declared that "They will not defeat Venezuela, we are invincible."

The United States has consistently labeled Maduro as an undemocratic ruler, citing disputed re-election that global monitors considered irregular.

Amid conflicts, US President Donald Trump has left open the possibility of direct talks with Maduro, suggesting that "at some point, we will talk with him."